The New ACT Test Structure: ACT with Enhancements

The ACT is undergoing significant changes beginning in 2025, with a streamlined structure that promises a more focused testing experience. If you’re planning to take the ACT after April 2025, you’ll be facing a different version than the one students have been taking for years. Let’s explore the new ACT test structure and understand what these changes mean for test-takers.

Timeline for ACT Enhancements #

The rollout of the new ACT is happening in phases. The enhanced version will first become available for the National online ACT beginning in April 2025. For those who prefer the traditional pen and paper format or are international test-takers, these enhancements will be implemented starting September 2025.

Structure of the New Enhanced ACT #

The new ACT test has undergone substantial restructuring. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Test	Number of Questions	Duration
English	50	35 minutes
Mathematics	45	50 minutes
Reading	36	40 minutes
Science (optional)	40	40 minutes
Writing (optional)	1	40 minutes

This structure represents a significant departure from the previous format, with fewer questions and shorter overall testing time.

Major Changes to the ACT #

1. Reduced Number of Questions #

One of the most noticeable changes is the reduction in the total number of questions. The new ACT includes 44 fewer questions overall. The three core sections—English, Mathematics, and Reading—now contain a total of 131 questions, down from 175 in the previous version. This reduction aims to decrease test fatigue while still thoroughly assessing students’ abilities.

2. Shorter Test Duration #

The time commitment for the core sections has been significantly reduced. The three mandatory sections now take a total of 125 minutes to complete, compared to 195 minutes in the older ACT format. This 70-minute reduction makes the test less exhausting for students, potentially allowing for better focus throughout.

Students preparing for these changes can benefit from Wizako’s Live Online Classes for SAT and ACT. Their tutors include US Top 20 MBA and IIM Graduates who are well-versed in the new test format and can help students adapt their study strategies accordingly.

3. More Time Per Question #

In recognition of the importance of thoughtful answers over speed, the new ACT allows more time per question across all sections, including the optional Science section. This change gives students additional time to process information and demonstrate their knowledge, potentially reducing the pressure that comes with tight time constraints.

4. Science Section Now Optional #

Perhaps the most structural change is that the Science section is no longer mandatory. Students can now choose whether to take this section based on their strengths, interests, or the requirements of their target colleges. This flexibility in the new ACT Test structure allows test-takers to focus on showcasing their strongest abilities.

5. New Composite Score Calculation #

With the Science section becoming optional, the ACT composite score will now be calculated using only the three core tests: English, Mathematics, and Reading. For students who opt to take the Science test, that score will be reported separately and won’t factor into the composite score.

What Remains Unchanged #

Despite these significant changes, several aspects of the ACT remain the same:

1. Scoring Scale #

The ACT will continue to use the familiar 1 to 36 scoring scale. This consistency ensures that scores from the new format can be compared with historical data and maintains the test’s recognizable benchmark.

2. Previous Composite Scores #

It’s important to note that composite scores from the older ACT format (which included Science scores) will not be revised after the rollout of the new ACT. This means that historical scores remain valid for college applications.

3. Test Format Options #

The ACT will continue to be available in both pen-and-paper format and as an online test. This flexibility allows students to choose the format that best suits their comfort level and testing style.

4. Linear Test Structure #

Unlike some other standardized tests that have moved to adaptive formats (where question difficulty changes based on previous answers or previous sections), the ACT will remain a linear test. This means all students receive the same questions in the same order, regardless of their performance on previous questions.

Preparing for the New ACT #

With these significant changes to the ACT test format, preparation strategies will need to evolve. Wizako’s Live Online Classes for SAT and ACT offer updated curriculum that addresses these changes directly. Their two-way interactive live online classes provide personal attention and are result-oriented, helping students navigate the new format effectively.

The reduction in questions and increased time per question suggests that the new ACT may be placing greater emphasis on accuracy than on speed. This may also translate into the questions getting a shade tougher. Students should focus on developing stronger critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze complex information rather than simply memorizing facts or formulas.

Implications for Test-Takers #

These changes to the ACT structure have several potential benefits for students:

• Reduced test fatigue may lead to improved performance, especially in later sections
• More time per question could result in more thoughtful responses and fewer careless errors
• Making the Science section optional allows students to play to their strengths
• The shorter overall duration makes the test less intimidating and potentially reduces test anxiety

However, these changes also mean that each question now carries more weight in determining the final score, since there are fewer questions overall.

Final Thoughts #

The new ACT structure represents a significant evolution in standardized testing. By streamlining the test while maintaining its fundamental purpose and scoring system, the ACT aims to provide a more focused assessment experience that better serves both students and colleges.

As you prepare for the new ACT format, consider taking advantage of specialized preparation resources like Wizako’s Live Online Classes, which feature tutors from top institutions and an updated curriculum specifically designed for the enhanced test. Their personal attention and result-oriented approach can help you navigate these changes confidently and perform at your best on test day.

Remember that while the structure is changing, the core skills being tested remain the same—reading comprehension, mathematical reasoning, and English language proficiency. With proper preparation and understanding of the new format, you can approach the enhanced ACT with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About the New ACT Test Structure #

1. When exactly will the new ACT format be implemented? #

The enhanced ACT will first be available for National online testing beginning in April 2025. For pen-and-paper tests and international test-takers, the new format will roll out in September 2025.

2. Will colleges treat the new ACT scores differently than the old format? #

Colleges are being informed about the changes to the ACT, but the scoring scale remains the same (1-36). Most colleges will continue to accept ACT scores as before, although some may adjust their policies regarding the now-optional Science section.

3. How should I prepare differently for the new ACT format? #

Focus on depth rather than breadth in your preparation. With fewer questions but more time per question, the test may emphasize deeper understanding and analysis. Consider preparation programs like Wizako’s that have updated their curriculum specifically for the new format.

4. If I take the Science section, how will it affect my application? #

While the Science score won’t be included in your composite score, it will still be reported separately. For STEM-focused programs or schools that value science aptitude, a strong Science section score could enhance your application.

5. Should I still take the Science section if it’s optional? #

This depends on your strengths and college goals. If you’re applying to STEM programs or if science is a strong subject for you, taking this section can showcase additional skills. Research whether your target colleges recommend or require the Science section.

6. Will the difficulty level of questions change with the new format? #

ACT hasn’t officially stated that question difficulty will change, but with more time per question, it’s possible that questions may require deeper analysis. The fundamental content areas being tested remain the same.

7. Can I use old ACT practice materials to prepare for the new test? #

While the core content hasn’t changed dramatically, the format has. It’s advisable to use updated materials that reflect the new ACT question counts and timing. Look for preparation resources that have been revised for the 2025 format.

8. How does the new ACT compare to the SAT? #

With the Science section now optional, the ACT’s core structure (English, Math, Reading) more closely resembles the SAT. However, the ACT remains a linear test while the Digital SAT is adaptive, and there are still significant differences in content emphasis and question style.

9. If I’ve already taken the old ACT, should I retake it in the new format? #

If you’re satisfied with your current score, there’s no need to retake the test. However, if you found the Science section challenging or struggled with time management, the new ACT Test structure might work to your advantage.

10. Will the Writing section change in any way? #

No, the Writing section itself has not undergone structural changes in the new ACT format. It remains optional with the same 40-minute duration and still consists of one essay prompt. The scoring scale and evaluation criteria for the Writing section also remain unchanged. However, always check the specific requirements of your target colleges, as some may require or recommend completing this section despite it being optional.